High Springs FloridaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near High Springs, Florida.
1. O'Leno State Park
HISTORIC RIVERSIDE RECREATION
O'Leno State Park offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into Florida's natural beauty and history along the banks of the Santa Fe River. Visitors can explore hiking trails, enjoy picnicking, camping, and witness the unique natural phenomenon where the river disappears underground at the River Sink. The park's CCC-era buildings and suspension bridge provide a charming historical backdrop to this outdoor adventure destination.
2. Blue Springs Park
PRISTINE AQUATIC PLAYGROUND
Blue Springs Park entices visitors with its crystal-clear turquoise waters that maintain a refreshing 72-degree temperature year-round. The spring offers excellent swimming, snorkeling, and diving opportunities with visibility that allows guests to marvel at the underwater limestone formations and aquatic life. Surrounding picnic areas and shaded spots make this an ideal location for families to spend a relaxing day immersed in nature.
3. Ginnie Springs
WORLD-CLASS UNDERWATER CAVES
Ginnie Springs is a world-renowned diving destination featuring a complex of five crystal-clear springs and underwater cave systems popular with both novice swimmers and certified cave divers. Visitors can float down cool spring runs on tubes, explore underwater caverns, or test their balance with stand-up paddleboarding in the pristine waters. The springs' extensive facilities include camping areas and cabins for those wanting to extend their aquatic adventure into a multi-day experience.
4. Poe Springs Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY NATURAL OASIS
Poe Springs Park welcomes families and nature enthusiasts to its scenic grounds centered around a second-magnitude spring that produces millions of gallons of water daily. The spring's turquoise waters and sandy bottom create ideal conditions for swimming, snorkeling, and paddling, while the surrounding park offers picnic facilities and a playground. Visitors can enjoy reasonably priced food from an on-site food truck while taking in views of the Santa Fe River that runs through this natural haven.
5. Blue Spring
VIBRANT AZURE WATERS
Blue Spring captivates visitors with its intensely deep blue coloration that gives this natural wonder its fitting name. The spring's striking azure waters create a mesmerizing visual effect as sunlight penetrates its depths, highlighting underwater features and creating a photographer's paradise. Visitors can immerse themselves in the spring's refreshing waters or simply admire its natural beauty from the surrounding viewing areas.
6. High Springs Brewing Company
CRAFT BEER DOWNTOWN DESTINATION
High Springs Brewing Company offers a taste of local flavor in its family-owned and operated brewery nestled in the heart of Historic Downtown. Beer enthusiasts can sample a variety of traditional beer styles with unique local twists in the brewery's welcoming taproom. Regular food truck appearances complement the craft beer experience, making it a perfect stop after a day of exploring the nearby springs and outdoor attractions.
7. The Antiques Center
NOSTALGIC TREASURE HUNTING
The Antiques Center transports visitors back in time the moment they step through its doors into a world of vintage treasures and collectibles. This charming establishment showcases an extensive collection of antiques ranging from furniture and home décor to unique curiosities from bygone eras. Treasure hunters and history enthusiasts alike can spend hours browsing the varied collections that capture the essence of America's material past.
8. Anderson's Outdoor Adventures Santa Fe River Park
RIVER RECREATION HEADQUARTERS
Anderson's Outdoor Adventures Santa Fe River Park serves as the perfect launching point for exploring the scenic Santa Fe River by canoe, kayak, tube, or paddleboard. Located in the heart of springs country, this Gilchrist County park provides easy access to multiple spring-fed adventures along the river's crystal-clear waters. Visitors can rent equipment on-site and embark on self-guided journeys to discover hidden springs and lush riverbank scenery at their own pace.
9. Lanza Gallery & Art Supplies
LOCAL CREATIVITY SHOWCASE
Lanza Gallery & Art Supplies combines a fine art gallery with a comprehensive art supply store in downtown High Springs. Art lovers can browse an impressive collection of paintings, jewelry, and pottery created by talented local artisans from the North Florida region. The gallery not only showcases finished works but also encourages creativity by offering quality art and craft supplies for aspiring artists and craftspeople.
10. River Ranch Water Park
REFRESHING FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT
River Ranch Water Park offers aquatic fun for visitors of all ages with its variety of water attractions and comfortable amenities. Families appreciate the shaded lounge areas for relaxing, snack bar options, and tables situated under roofed areas with cooling ceiling fans. The water park combines natural beauty with modern facilities to create a refreshing escape from Florida's warm climate.
11. High Springs Museum
LOCAL HISTORY PRESERVED
High Springs Museum invites visitors to step back in time inside a beautifully restored historic schoolhouse in downtown High Springs. The museum's exhibits chronicle the area's rich railroad history, the significance of the local springs, and the evolution of this charming town through carefully preserved artifacts and photographs. History enthusiasts gain insight into the cultural and economic forces that shaped High Springs from its early days to its present status as a gateway to natural wonders.
12. North Florida Springs Environmental Center
SPRINGS EDUCATION HEADQUARTERS
North Florida Springs Environmental Center serves as an educational hub dedicated to promoting awareness and conservation of Florida's precious freshwater springs. Visitors can interact with touch-screen maps showcasing the region's extensive spring systems while learning about their ecological importance and the challenges they face. This non-profit center in downtown High Springs plays a vital role in connecting people with knowledge about these natural treasures and inspiring stewardship of Florida's unique water resources.
13. Walldogs Mural Tour
OUTDOOR ART GALLERY EXPERIENCE
The Walldogs Mural Tour showcases vibrant public artworks painted on buildings throughout downtown High Springs, creating an outdoor gallery experience for visitors. Each colorful mural depicts aspects of local history, culture, and natural features that define this charming Florida town. Visitors can capture unique selfies against these artistic backdrops while learning about the community's heritage through this creative visual storytelling project.
14. Santa Fe River
SCENIC PADDLING PARADISE
The Santa Fe River flows through High Springs offering one of Florida's most scenic paddling experiences with its crystal-clear waters and lush, tree-lined banks. Adventurers can embark on leisurely canoe, kayak, or tube excursions to discover hidden springs bubbling up from the riverbed and observe diverse wildlife in their natural habitat. The river's gentle current makes it accessible to paddlers of all skill levels, creating the perfect natural playground for exploring Florida's unique spring-fed waterways.
15. Downtown High Springs
HISTORIC SHOPPING DISTRICT
Downtown High Springs charms visitors with its well-preserved historic buildings housing an eclectic mix of antique shops, art galleries, and local eateries. Strolling along Main Street, visitors can browse for unique treasures, admire local artwork, and sample delicious cuisine in a relaxed, small-town atmosphere. The district's authentic Old Florida character and friendly local merchants create an inviting destination for those seeking a break from chain stores and fast-paced shopping experiences.